Golf
in Thailand

Golf is one of the most popular
sports in Thailand. It arrived here a century ago and was quickly taken
up by the elite and fashionable. Among the first sponsors of the game
were the Armed Forces and government institutions, which built and
continue to own some of the finest courses in the country.

Golf's
popularity rose dramatically after the country hosted its first
international tournament-the 1975 World Cup. The number of courses rose
sharply in the past decade, in step with the country's economic boom. The
world's top designers have come and left their marks, so have many
world-class players. Now there are at least a few courses in or within easy
reach of all major cities. Most courses built in the last 10 years offer
accommodations on site or nearby, plus recreational facilities for the whole
family. For the more adventurous, there are older, natural courses in remote
areas around the country owned by the Royal Irrigation Department, the
Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand and the State Railway of
Thailand, all offering good value.

The best
time to come is the cool season, from November to March. From April to
October, it is very hot and wet. But even in the rainy months, the
heavy pour usually comes in the afternoon, and for only a few minutes. And
since most courses have good drainage systems, the rains should not
interrupt your game for long. At some facilities you may need to book ahead,
through your club or your hotels. Do book in advance for the weekends, for
attendance goes up sharply at most courses, and for the peak travel season,
from December to February.

The state of the economy not
withstanding, greens fees continue to be very reasonable. So are the fees
for the well-trained, helpful caddies. Service on green and at the
clubhouse, as befitting the Land of Smiles, is prompt and courteous.

Since the country is well connected by
road, rail and air, you can take day trips to the courses and return to
stay in the city, or hire a car and draw up your own itinerary. Lodging
facilities in all major cities run the full spectrum from the cozy to the
luxurious, and in every town there is at least one comfortable place to
stay. For the family, or to fill a break in your schedule, there is a
diverse choice of culture, adventure, dining and shopping available wherever
you choose to tee-off.